For a wealthy man like Tony Stark, being able to join the game is, of course, a great opportunity. The game not only involves money and technology but also offers numerous plot tasks that can greatly enrich the gameplay. Instead of getting tired of robberies or gang fights every day, the game will eventually involve cooperation with organizations such as Hydra, S.H.I.E.L.D., the Hand, and the Intelligence Bureau to diversify the game's plot.
"Technical personnel, meaning they specialize in scientific research. After the research results are released, they are sold to game platforms. Generally, I don't participate in games and perform tasks to make money. Of course, if you have any needs, you can also post tasks on it." Merlin explained.
"I didn't expect it to be a huge trading platform." Stark was a little surprised. But he quickly realized that without monetary transactions, no one would become a platform player. This realization made it clear to him the immense influence and resources behind this gaming platform.
In the following conversation, Stark repeatedly questioned Merlin to learn more about the game. However, it seemed the game platform had only recently been built, leaving little useful information. Meanwhile, George successfully negotiated a deal, choosing Stark Industries over Hammer and Osborne Industries due to its reputation as a leading defense company.
The contract stipulated a $10 million payment for a three-year technology patent, with free sales after fulfilling police orders. Obadiah saw potential for micro-electromagnetic pulse devices as individual combat weapons, especially in areas with outdated weapon technology.
After finalizing the micro-electromagnetic pulse weapon deal, the discussion shifted to strategies for reducing NY City's crime rate.
"You're welcome to visit me anytime. If you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out. Here's my business card." Kingpin handed Merlin a card with a kind expression, then nodded to George, who looked displeased, and left the banquet hall.
As the evening drew to a close, Mayor Christian's final speech marked the end of the banquet. George turned to Merlin, watching him pocket Kingpin's card. "Try to avoid dealing with him. He might appear as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, but he's dangerous. If you interact with him, you'll likely be exploited."
Merlin nodded. "Okay, I understand."
George continued, "I'll arrange the transfer of ten million dollars once the contract is finalized. Keep the money discreet. Officially, it will remain with me." He warned Merlin seriously, unaware of Merlin's inner thoughts.
"Got it," Merlin reassured him, acknowledging the gravity of George's words.
During the subsequent period, Merlin focused on expanding and laying out his game platform. He invested considerable effort into acquiring and constructing various establishments like car repair shops, modification shops, weapon shops, and bunkers. Once these were set up, the R planet subsystem created fully automated production lines for weapons and vehicles.
Meanwhile, apartments, villas, and nightclubs in Hell's Kitchen were systematically taken over and reorganized. He also reopened the herbal medicine sales and smuggling routes, with operations managed online for safety and efficiency.
Bullseye, Daredevil, and Punisher joined as players, helping to maintain and expand Merlin's influence in Hell's Kitchen. Their involvement ensured that any trouble was swiftly dealt with, allowing the platform's industry to develop smoothly.
Bullseye joined purely out of interest, while Daredevil Matt agreed because he heard he could make a lot of money to support his vigilante activities. With the basic production and industrial chains in Hell's Kitchen stabilized, Merlin was ready to start opening servers to recruit players for expansion.
Recruiting players too early might bring in money, but without a solid foundation and the necessary weapons and vehicles characteristic of the game, the platform would struggle to develop further. Thus, Merlin focused on steady development.
Due to the Punisher's presence, Hell's Kitchen had experienced an unusual period of stability. The Punisher's reputation for decisively eliminating threats had a significant deterrent effect. If he said he would destroy someone, he meant it.
Merlin's careful planning and the Punisher's ruthless enforcement brought a semblance of order to the notorious neighborhood, making it an unexpectedly safe environment compared to the past.
After sending Hannah home on his motorcycle, Merlin was rushing back. Gwen had been very busy lately, and they hadn't had much time to see each other. She and Peter didn't even come to class today.
The dull sound of the motorcycle echoed on the street, occasionally attracting envious glances from some teenagers.
"Look and see her eyes, they glow..." At that moment, a ringtone suddenly rang in Merlin's headset.
"Sol, answer the call."
The Solomon or sol was the Rockstar artificial intelligence system.
The call was connected, and soon an anxious voice sounded in the headset.
"Merlin! Where are you now?"
"I'm on Sixth Street, what's wrong?" Merlin asked, frowning slightly and subconsciously slowing down a bit upon hearing Gwen's anxious voice.
"Merlin! Are you listening?" Gwen's tone grew more anxious when she didn't get a response.
"It's too late, he's already chasing us," Merlin said calmly.
Suddenly, without any warning, a sewer manhole cover shot up into the air on the driveway in front of him. A massive, green monster's giant claws gripped the edge, and a huge, ferocious lizard man leaped out, blocking the path of his motorcycle.
erlin didn't panic when he saw this, but immediately changed direction and wanted to turn around.
"Fuck!" Merlin swore as he turned the motorcycle sideways. Without hesitation, he held up the fuel tank with both hands and made a desperate leap off the bike.
"Bang!" A thick manhole cover roared past like a cannonball, smashing the motorcycle to pieces on the spot.
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